Benedek has been serving as an altar boy since the age of seven. His father even built a small chapel for him in their yard, which he furnished beautifully. Benedek wants to become a priest, so it’s no surprise that he wished to meet the Pope when he encountered a genie. This wish was fulfilled during Holy Week before Easter— already a significant occasion — but 2025 is also a Holy Year, which makes a visit to the Vatican particularly meaningful.

Immediately after our arrival, we headed to St. Peter's Basilica. Benedek was fascinated by the square, the basilica, the atmosphere of these, he just turned his head back and forth. Unfortunately, due to Pope Francis’ health condition, a personal meeting with him could not take place. However, Benedek was received by Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas, the coadjutor archpriest of the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. After passing through the Holy Door, he immediately began a conversation with Benedek, and they then prayed together in front of Pope Francis' favorite sacred image, the Salus Populi Romani. (A few days later, this visit took on a somber significance when the Pope was buried in this basilica, near the sacred image.)

During our stay in Rome, we also visited the Holy Stairs and the Lateran Basilica, but of course, we couldn’t miss the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain either.

On the day of our departure, thanks to the Pontifical Hungarian Ecclesiastical Institute, Benedek was also able to attend the Chrism Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, which filled him with deep devotion.

Benedek’s brother, Gergő, was also able to travel with him. He had always wanted to fly, so these few days became an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

We would like to thank our supporters—Wizz Air Hungary Ltd., Forbes Hungary, Retroplusz Trading and Service Ltd., Veszprém – Balaton Christian Culture Foundation, Mr. Péter Rudolf, director of the Vígszínház and the management of the theatre, the audience of the performance, as well as our private donors—for helping make Benedek’s dream come true.

Zsuzsanna Kis
Wish Coordinator
Rome, April 17, 2025